Valentines Day --- Love on many levels!

~~The Gayla Pink Apple~~

 

Happy Valentines Day to all of you and your LOVES! 

 

 



Love is a word often misunderstood and misused.  There are many levels of love!  This is not a blog post diving deeply into the word and its' meaning. 

 

I do, however, want to say that on this particular LOVE day, Camille is definitely already loved greatly in this home!  She has been here only three days now, so you can imagine she is still unsure of her environment and very confused.

Camille with her Valentine Red Bow

Camille was previously owned by a "high end" (their words, not mine) standard poodle breeder who gave her up to be re-homed because she delivered small litters.  She is three years old and her last delivery she delivered only two puppies.  You probably agree... that doesn't make a breeder much money when the average litter for a standard poodle would be more like eight or more puppies.  In addition, it's not good for the dog to continue breeding.  I will give the breeder kind remarks in that area.  He did the right thing by giving her up to be re-homed. 

The term "high end" breeder was the term used by the standard poodle rescue organization, not my wording.  Even though the breeder supposedly sells the puppies for $1,500 to $2,000 or more, it doesn't impress me or mean much to me as far as the first 3 years of Camille's life. 

I am guessing that really means she lived in a kennel.  Most likely well fed and cared for, but not necessarily socialized or loved my humans. But, that's about to change - she will be loved a lot for the rest of her life.  She is the sweetest girl - yet, very scared and skittish. 

It's obvious she hasn't been in a city environment.  She is very leery of cars driving by and is very much out of her element.  It will take time for her to adjust and it will take time for me to learn her signals and vice versa.  I do not have experience with rescue animals and I do not have a clue how to read them.  But, together we will do this! 

Love on many levels on this Valentines Day! 





So, G - you think you're smarter than a Standard Poodle, huh!

~~The Gayla Pink Apple~~

Think again!

 

As I went to get the mail today,  I was interested to see how Camille was going to handle my opening the front door.   She stood back so perfectly - standing about 10 ft. behind me.  Just in case you don't know, Camille is the standard poodle I adopted and brought home yesterday.

 

I opened the door - reached for the mail - and all of a sudden she bolted past me - out the front door she flew!  Knocking over a concrete planter on the front porch -  down the front steps and out of sight.   I was able to grab her, but made it worse because I wasn't able to hold on to her to keep her from getting out the door. 

 Camille

My worst fear was coming true.  My heart practically stopped and panic mode definitely set in as I watched her disappear before my eyes.  Of course, I starting calling her name!  Took my voice to a nice "good girl"  voice in an attempt to send a message that I was here for her. 

 

I immediately called my husband in a panic and he rushed home from the office to help.  I pulled myself somewhat together and slowly started walking in the direction I last saw her.  Long story short, I got lucky and followed her path and there she was!!!  Standing dead still because a fence had stopped her and she hadn't figured out how to get around it, yet.  I was able to slowly "sweet talk" my way to her praying she didn't bolt and run again.  Luckily, she stood there and didn't run and I was able to get my hands on her collar. 

 

Traumatized is putting it mildly - for both of us!!!

 

 

 



Now, It's A Standard (Arf! Arf!) POODLE

~~The Gayla Pink Apple~~

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It Was Once A Miniature Schnauzer;
Then, It was a Shih Tzu;
Now, it's a Standard Poodle!

I've been wanting a standard poodle for a few years now.  I tried talking myself out of it several times - actually have talked myself out of it a couple times - but somehow would not let it go. The desire continued and did not disappear.  So, recently the search was on.  I looked into puppies and easily found some great ones.  I also completed an application to rescue a standard poodle and then put it on hold.  The waiting began - the pondering continued. Do I buy a puppy or see if a rescue that is a good match comes my way.  Do I have room in my heart for another dog?  Is the time now?  Is there a sign in this for me to follow?  Yes, I think so - keep reading...
 

I still grieve for our little Shih Tzu, Casey and it's been a year since she died.  Growing up we had dogs, but they were outside dogs. I never really attached to them like I have - as an adult - with my indoor pets. 

It Was Once A Miniature Schnauzer

Baron Von Benzer  

First, there was Benzer, a miniature schnauzer. His official name was Baron Von Benzer. He was kind of like my first child. Benzer loved to please you, instead of demanding you please him. He was well behaved - I taught him to NOT jump up on the furniture - I wasn't going to have my furniture smelling like "dog" - He didn't sleep on our bed - I mean, my goodness - no! Oh, the rules when I was young!!! :-) He joined my household before a baby/child entered my world. But, regardless of my rules, I loved him dearly and he loved us back many times over. 

Then, It was a Shih Tzu

Lady Peek-A-Boo Casey Marie enters the household and I must tell you about her, too.  Benzer shared the spotlight with her for 5 or 6 years.  Oh Yes, Casey - the teeny tiny 8 week-old Shih Tzu.  She belonged to my daughter.  Blair was in the 2nd or 3rd grade and decided she needed her very own pet.  She knew exactly what she wanted - a little white dog to sleep and cuddle with, and sit in her lap.  

Lady Peek-A-Boo Casey Marie

Casey was exactly what Blair ordered and she stole all our hearts, too. I have to say though, she expected you to please her, instead of her pleasing you. She had that little tilt of the head and cute little face that got exactly what she wanted when she wanted. Yes, she got on the sofa, slept on the bed, she did whatever she wanted and went wherever she wished. She broke all the house rules Benzer had to live by.   All of my rules went out the door when this little lady came along.

She was named Peek-A-Boo because the day we brought her home she would put her paws over her eyes - move her paws away - look at us - then put them back over her eyes; as if she were playing peek-a-boo with us. She was so loved by our entire family.  Casey passed away a year ago at 14 1/2 years old.

Now, it's a Standard Poodle!

I think at this stage in my life, a standard poodle indeed 'fits' me perfectly.  I got the call from a poodle rescue organization on the one-year anniversary of Casey's death.  Camille is white and cream (so was Casey) - is a girl (so was Casey) and her name starts with the letter "C"!  Is that ironic?  I originally wanted a male, black or chocolate brown; and his name would not start with the letter "C"!  But, here is this girl, white and cream, and need I say more?   It's obvious - She's my gal!  She's the standard poodle for me!

 

Mademoiselle Camille Bianca Rose

It is time for a large dog that can run with me outdoors.  I want a large poodle because they do not shed and are very smart.  I will admit I do not like small poodles very much and I've never been much of a poodle fan; but I'm convinced the big standard poodle is a good match for me now. 



It Was Once A Miniature Schnauzer;
(Baron Von Benzer)

Then, It was a Shih Tzu;
(Lady Peek-a-Boo Casey Marie)

Now, it's a Standard Poodle!
(Mademoiselle Camille Bianca Rose)

My Heart Smiles,

Gayla 





How Much is That DOGGIE in the Window? (Arf! Arf!)

~~The Gayla Pink Apple~~

Oh, I do hope that doggie's for ME! (Arf! Arf!)

YES, she's for me - she came home with me today!

Meet Camille!   She is a big poodle - a  standard.   I'm sure it's just a matter of time and this young lady will be the center of attention in my house.

I knew the next dog in my life would be a big dog,    I was pretty sure it would be a standard poodle --- just wasn't sure if it would ever happen.  I had very mixed emotions about getting another dog.  I have been wanting a standard (large) poodle for a few years now.  At the time, I didn't get one because we had our little Shih Tzu, Casey.  I didn't want her to feel replaced, etc.  She was our little princess and I thought a big poodle might be a bit much for her to adjust.  As most of you know, Casey died a year ago, February 2013.

Adoption papers signed today at 3pm!!

I think at this stage in my life, a standard poodle indeed 'fits' me perfectly.  I think Camille and I are a perfect match.  She needs a home and I need a pal.   She is very mellow,  loving, and sweet - I'm already loving my time with her.   Just look at that intelligent face.   Camille is a rescue - a cream and apricot parti-colored standard poodle.

I got the call from a rescue organization for poodles on the one-year anniversary of Casey's death. Camille is white and cream (so was Casey) - is a girl (so was Casey) - and her name starts with the letter "C"!    Is that ironic?    I originally wanted a male, black or chocolate brown; and doubt his name would start with the letter "C"!   But, here is this girl, white and cream, and need I say more?    It's obvious - She's my gal!   She's the standard poodle for me!

She will become my running buddy. That's the plan, anyway!  I wanted a large poodle because they're extremely smart, and do not shed.  And, I wanted a dog that could run with me.   I'm really looking forward to this new relationship.

Camille's photo from the rescue (poodle) organization! 

Look for her blog --- "Camille's Poodle Doodle Chatterbox " is coming soon.  Yes, she will have her own blog.   How fun is that?   :-)  What?  Did you just say that I need to get a life?  That's funny and you're kind of right; but hey, my life now includes Camille.

When is it too cold to RUN?

For my running co-hearts...do you run in the cold?  Yes, I've been doing my best to stay on track training for the upcoming LRM10k in March.  It has been a challenge, indeed.  It requires running when the temperatures are quite very very cold.  I manage to run when the temperature is in the 30's or 40's - which is cold to me.  However, I draw the line when it's below 30 and find myself balking when it's in the low 30's - more like below 35.

Brrrrrrrr - my COLD run today!

Today it was 43 degrees but felt like 36 degrees.  That's borderline too cold for me. I find it a major challenge - physically and mentally. It's quite a task to complete.  I've bought every cold gear clothing you can imagine. I buy every piece I can find if I think it's going to help me get through that run. From neck warmers to all different thicknesses of headbands and gloves.

I certainly am yearning for the temps to rise and the opportunity to run in some nicer weather.  I pray for the weather to be nice this year for the LR Marathon.  Last year, it was extremely cold - around 25 degrees that morning waiting in the starting line.  I sure hope this year it's a little warmer - actually, hoping for it to be a lot warmer. 

Thanks for letting me somewhat vent with this blog post today. 

Hello 2014...

~~The Gayla Pink Apple~~

It's January 4th and I'm just now deciding to acknowledge 2014.  Why? 
 

Because, I am not a big fan of January 1st.  Here's why...  You see, New Year's day musters up a pit in my stomach.  I found the lump in my breast, which turned out to be malignant, and the start of my battle with breast cancer on New Year's Day 2005.  Now, I try to let it pass without a lot of fuss and attention to the day . Perhaps, it's a fear that pit in my stomach might return.   I even avoid taking a shower on New Year's Day - silly, I know!  I found the lump in my breast as I showered and soaped my body.  I guess I think if I don't shower on New Year's Day I can't find another lump - I don't have a very good explanation. 

I also saw my oncologist on Thursday, January 2nd.  She reminded me that my breast cancer was "TRIPLE X" and there was a higher percentage rate of recurrence in triple X breast cancers.  I knew that.  She continues telling me that since I've got 8 years of survival behind me now, I'm considered cancer free.  I knew that, too.  You would think I'd clap and jump with joy.  Internally I did, but externally I broke down and couldn't hold back the tears.  I tried to explain to her they were tears of joy.  She says "well, I am sure they are - but, whether they are or not, you don't look good; you look tired.  You need to rest and take care of yourself."  Well, not exactly what I expected her to say and not really what I wanted to hear, either.  But, that's my doctor and I know, without a doubt in my mind, she said it to help me, not hurt me. 

We talked some more  - my blood work was good - she asked about my running - she asked about my daughter.  We chatted about this and that.  I pulled myself together - she hugged me and departed with kind, sweet, and loving words for me to take with me.  All's GOOD! 

I seldom make resolutions for the new year, either -  never have, really.  I don't think I'll start now.  I do, however, have a bucket list of things I'd like to do someday.  I hope to check off a few of those items in 2014.   It's four days into the new year and I'm ready to be a part of it - I don't know what's in store for me - but whatever it is, I hope it's GOOD! 

Wishing you good things in 2014, too!

       

A Year in Review - 2013

~~The Gayla Pink Apple~~

 

A Year In Review - 2013

 

As I look back on this year...
 

The year started off in a sad state as our little dog's health started to decline.  She hung on for the holidays (2012) and I know in my heart she hung on to see her favorite person in the whole world, Blair.  Blair was home for both Thanksgiving and Christmas (2012) and showered Casey with attention.  Our precious little Shih Tzu, Casey, passed away February 7, 2013!  Very sad day.

 

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Valentine's Day Flower Pups...

 

A Valentine Couple of Pups

Just the cutest thing you've ever seen?  Valentine's flower pup arrangement.  She has her fancy red hair bow with a silver glitter heart in the middle of it, and he has his bow tie!  She's holding a single rose from him, her best friend!  A special bond between these two pups! 

 

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March 3, 2013 - Little Rock Marathon 10K

My first 10K - Yay!  What a feeling!  And, what a moment captured in the 2nd picture!!

 

My First 10K

Yay!  What a Day!!!

Crossing the finish line!

What a Picture!!! Such a good feeling!

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April 22, 2013 BostonStrongLR event, Murray Park, Little Rock.  Runners gather to show their support and make a donation to The One Fund of Boston. 

BostonStrongLR Event - Murray Park, Little Rock



I ran 3.1 miles (a 5K) for my daughter, Blair, who graduated in 2012 from Emerson College in Boston. The devestating tragic events at the Boston Marathon in 2013 will forever live in our minds.

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April - July 2013 -- Renovated my backyard garden.  As I strugged to move on after the death of our little shih tzu, I decided to revamp the backyard. 

I started working on it in April and finished it in July.    There are many blog posts about the transformation as each project was finished.  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

JULY

A 10 day trip to NYC to see Blair and celebrate my bithday! 

Gemze and me - July 22, 2013

Gemze's apartment in NYC

58th Birthday Photo - July 17, 2013

Gemze's NYC apartment

Blair - C & C time (coffee and chat)

Almost daily a trip to the corner diner a couple blocks from Blair's apt in NYC

Me and my doggie bag from the diner.

Ten days in NYC with my daughter was a great little mid-summer trip.  Refreshing to get away from my backyard gardening and to spend face-to-face time with my favorite girl in the whole world.  Celebrated my 58th birthday while there. A great week!! 

 

July 17th was my 58th birthday - a few photos of a couple special birthday wishes...

A birthday cake made of fresh cut flowers from a very dear friend - I love flowers and this is the perfect cake for me -- it's not edible and the flowers bring me much more joy than eating a piece of cake. 

A sweet card from my aunt with a note reminiscing and sharing her thoughts with me on the day I was born in 1955.  Priceless

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AUGUST

 

A very hot month of temperatures in the high 90's with very high humidity.  It was tough to do anything except sit by the air conditioner and read a good book.  Other than lunching with friends, and celebrating a few birthdays of special people, that's pretty much what I did. 

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SEPTEMBER

 Back on track with my running. Other than that, September was a pretty calm month. 

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OCTOBER

My daughter, Blair, was home for a visit the first week in October.  We celebrated her 24th birthday, went to see the musical Wicked at the Robinson Center and spent a lot of time enjoying my back yard garden.  It was her first time to see all the work I did renovating the back yard this year.

October 19, 2013 Little Rock SGKomen 5K

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.  The 20th Anniversary of the Susan G Komen Race for the Cure 5K took place October, too.

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NOVEMBER

Most of November is usually spent gearing up for the upcoming holidays and making decisions on how they will all come together. 

 

I flew to NYC to be with Blair for Thanksgiving.  She is in the early stages of her career, and being on the bottom of the seniority, means she had to work holidays this year.  Never fear, I'm here--I hopped on a plane and loved every minute of our time together.  I stayed two weeks and had a great time. 

Thanksgiving in NYC 

 We took a couple days out of the norm and spent some time seeing a few things I wanted to see, such as the Plaza Hotel, the famous Christmas decorations on 5th Avenue, and the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree (see photo collage above). 

Jingle Bell 5K Arthritis Foundation NYC

Blair and I ran a Christmas 5K - Jingle Bell Run along the Hudson River.   

 

Finished simple and rustic pergola in my backyard

The pergola was completed in November, too!  My Dad and Randy completed the construction of my backyard pergola.  I love it.

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DECEMBER

Randy and I spent the week of Christmas in NYC with Blair.  We did the typical tourist stuff because it was Randy's first time to NYC. 

 

 

Grand Central Station

 

 Wall Street

NYSE Floor

Ice skating in Central Park NYC

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree on Christmas Eve

It was definitely a time of adjustments for my family of three. My house wasn't decorated with its' usual garlands, wreaths, and tree. I didn't prepare our usual formal Christmas dinner. But, none the less, we had our time together and that's the important part!  

 

Thanksgiving and Christmas both in NYC ended 2013 in a most memorable way... 

 

 

Farewell to 2013...